Franklin Canyon Park

Just south of Studio City and north of Beverly Hills is the bucolic Franklin Canyon Park, site of the famous ’50s TV show Bonanza and dozens upon dozens of other productions. Sit serenely and watch the ducks bathe in the ponds or, for more rugged nature-lovers, check out the excellent hiking trails.

The park can be broadly split into two halves. The southern, Beverly Hills-facing side boasts the Hastain Trail, a 2.3-mile round-trip hike with lovely views of the city and ocean. The northern, Studio City side looks more akin to an alpine lake thanks to the beautiful upper reservoir, with easygoing, dog-friendly trails on either side, as well as a boardwalk through the duck pond across the street.

You’ll find two entrances, both on Franklin Canyon Drive, accessible from either side of the hills. But beware the area’s most infamous stop sign: A sign near the main parking lot warns of photo enforcement, and if you don’t come to a complete stop, you’ll face a $100-plus fine.

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